Diabetes Vs. High Blood Sugar: Understanding The Key Differences

Diabetes is a medical condition defined by consistently elevated levels of blood glucose. A diagnosis is typically made when fasting blood glucose levels exceed 7.0 mmol/L, or when blood sugar levels are above 11.1 mmol/L two hours after consuming a standard glucose solution. Additionally, if a person exhibits classic symptoms of diabetes—such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, or unexplained weight loss—and has a random blood glucose level higher than 11.1 mmol/L, they may also be diagnosed with diabetes. However, a single episode of high blood sugar does not necessarily mean a person has diabetes.

Understanding Temporary High Blood Sugar

High blood sugar, or hyperglycemia, can occur temporarily in response to certain acute conditions. For example, during a heart attack, severe infection, or traumatic brain injury, the body releases stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones can cause a short-term spike in blood sugar levels, leading to what is known as transient hyperglycemia. In such cases, the elevated glucose levels are not indicative of diabetes but rather a physiological response to stress.

How Doctors Evaluate Blood Sugar Levels After a Crisis

Before diagnosing diabetes, especially in individuals without a prior history of the condition, doctors usually wait until the acute situation has resolved. Once the immediate stressor has passed, patients are advised to undergo further testing, such as an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), to accurately assess their long-term glucose metabolism and rule out temporary causes of high blood sugar.

Key Takeaways

Diabetes involves chronic and persistent high blood sugar levels, meeting specific diagnostic criteria. High blood sugar, on the other hand, can be a temporary condition caused by external factors like illness or injury. Proper diagnosis requires careful evaluation over time, especially following acute health events.